Now, Lebedev, who represents the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, has attempted to downplay hooliganism by claiming those involved are simply passionate supporters.

On the party's official website, Lebedev said: "Our fans… are not hooligans. They suffer for and promote their clubs. They are football fans in the truest sense of the word. Yes, they sometimes fight but only with colleagues and not civilians."

Lebedev added that a union for fans should be organized so "soldiers" can battle. Lebedev noted that combat sports are contested between one combatant and another, yet the "popular and fun Russian sport [hooliganism]" can be a "wall to wall" fight between large teams at an agreed location like a stadium.

Russia is due to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup and, just one year prior to its commencement, Lebedev said: "Russia could become a pioneer in a new kind of sport. Fans arrive and start picking fights."